The New London Trail derived its name from a very brief and small time copper mining operation (circa 1910′a-30;s) on Elliott Creek Ridge named “New-London Claims”. The trail crosses into California and adits (an almost horizontal passageway to a mine) from the past claims are visible along the route. Please use caution entering these adits. As the trail switchbacks up from Elliott Creek to the ridge, the mixed hardwood and coniferous forest makes for a lovely understory ecosystem which supports a variety of species from White Trillium (Trillium ovatum) to a delicate endemic plant such as the Applegate Gooseberry (Ribes marshallii), to the more rare Rock Fern (Aspidotid densa). Bring along a plant identification book to see how many species can be keyed out along the walk to the ridge.

A loop may be made by following Elliott Ridge along the Stein Butte Trail #929 to its trailhead at Seattle Bar and walking the three mile section of road back to the New London Trailhead. Please remember to carry plenty of water as the few sources that may be available along this route in early spring to midsummer have not been tested for safety.

Facility Type: Trail